Last Store Closes in Moroun-Owned Detroit Shopping Center

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The last remaining store, a Forman Mills discount retailer, has permanently closed its doors at the Bel-Air Centre, a once-thriving shopping complex on Detroit's 8 Mile Road that has been owned by the Moroun family for years. The closure marks the end of an era for the aging mall, which has struggled with high vacancy rates and a lack of investment from its owners.

Why it matters

The Bel-Air Centre's demise is emblematic of the broader challenges facing aging retail centers in Detroit, as the city grapples with population loss, economic stagnation, and the rise of e-commerce. The Moroun family, known for their ownership of the Ambassador Bridge, have been criticized for letting the mall deteriorate over the years without a clear redevelopment plan.

The details

The Forman Mills store was the last remaining tenant at the Bel-Air Centre, which once housed a variety of retailers, restaurants, and a movie theater. Over the years, the mall has seen a steady decline, with many storefronts sitting vacant as the Moroun family, the property's owners, have been accused of neglecting the site and failing to invest in its upkeep or redevelopment.

• The Bel-Air Centre opened in the 1970s.
• The last remaining store, Forman Mills, closed its doors in February 2026.

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